About the Master of Arts in Deaconess Studies–Residential
The Master of Arts in Deaconess Studies–Residential (MDeac–R) prepares women for service to the church in the vocation of deaconess through a curriculum that includes rich theological education and formative practical experiences.
Admission Requirements
Because of the doctrinal position of the LCMS, all candidates for the Master of Arts in Deaconess Studies–Residential program must be women. If you are a man who would like to enter full-time service in the Church, consider our pastoral programs.
- Bachelor’s degree or the educational equivalent from an accredited college or university.
- Minimum 2.25 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
- Member of a Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod (LCMS) congregation for at least two years prior to admission.
Start the MDeac–R Application
Your Next Step
Take the first step toward your vocation. Submit your application now and join a community committed to rigorous study and faithful service.
Bibliography and Technology
Catechism Recitation
EXEGETICAL THEOLOGY – 18 HOURS
Gospels I, II
Pentateuch I
Pauline Epistles
Psalms
HISTORICAL THEOLOGY – 12 HOURS
Church History I, II, IV
History of the Office of Deaconess
SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY – 17 HOURS
Lutheran Confessions I, II, III
Theology of Mercy and Diaconal Care I, II
Theologia: The Means of Grace
DEACONESS COURSES – 22 HOURS
Liturgics I
Confessing Christ in Today’s World
Catechetics
Diaconal Counseling
Diaconal Formation Forum
Diaconal Seminar
Theological Ethics
Ministry to the Sick and Dying A, B
FIELD EDUCATION AND INTERNSHIP – 3 HOURS
Deaconess Field Education I, II
Deaconess Internship
TOTAL – 72 HOURS
A graduate of the MDeac–R program
- embodies the mercy of Christ
- exemplifies faithful participation in the church
- respects and supports the spiritual authority given to pastors
- understands the scriptural roots of the deaconess vocation
- articulates the Gospel to those in need of mercy
- fosters fellowship
- connects the church to its community
- reflects Christ’s compassion and care
MDeac–R Cost of Attendance (COA)
You can see a breakdown of the costs associated with this program by clicking here. Interested in using our cost of attendance (COA) calculator? Click the button below to get started.